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BOSTON….ONE OF THE BEST!

BOSTON is a city that truly lived up to its reputation as one of America's richest cities in history and culture, not to mention its wonderful foods. We began our Culinary Adventure when we arrived at our hotel, The Millennium Bostonian, in the heart of Faneuil Hall Marketplace and historic Quincy Market. It was an ideal spot, close to a variety of restaurants and shops and a great place to start our 3 day tour of one of America's oldest cities. One of the restaurants located at Faneuil Market is "Kingfish Hall", owned by renowned chef, Todd English. Surrounded by a fun, eclectic décor, the extensive menu featured acclaimed New England classic seafood dishes. The raw Shellfish Platter focuses on fresh local oysters, clams, shrimp, crab claws and mussels served with assorted dipping sauces is a specialty of the house, as well as the pan roasted halibut…it doesn't get any fresher than this!

Sunday morning brought us cool, clear skies to begin our "Duck Boat Tour". We boarded the authentic, renovated World War II amphibious landing vehicle for a fun tour of the city, only to end up in the Charles River for a breathtaking view of the skylines. Our lunch was at the famous "Legal Sea Foods" restaurant, featuring some of the best Boston Clam Chowder in the city and Lobster Rolls filled with huge chunks of fresh lobster. We did our best to walk off lunch by shopping at the Prudential Center, Filene's Basement and the many surrounding stores in the downtown area.

That evening was highlighted with a performance of "Shear Madness". Over 6 million people around the world have seen this entertaining comedy set in a hairstyling salon that is the scene of a wacky murder. Shear Madness is an uproarious whodunit where the audience gets to solve the crime. Great improvisations by terrific actors made for a wonderful evening of entertainment.

Monday morning we began our tour of Boston's Culinary Markets in the historic North End with Michele Toper. Michele, one of Boston's authorities on Italian food, wine and culture and a 30+ year resident of Boston's North End, revealed to us the secrets of America's oldest Italian neighborhood, its shops and cuisine. After various food samplings during our tour, we enjoyed a typical Italian lunch at "Artu", one of Michele's favorite tratorrias. It was a delightful and informative tour that any visit to Boston should include.

Another excellent restaurant in the downtown waterfront area is Sel de la Terre (Salt of the Earth) featuring rustic French country fare. An unbelievable rendition of a Pinenut Crusted Rack of Lamb with Cornbread Pudding set the tone for an outstanding evening.

Our last day ended with a return to the shops in the North End and a very satisfying Italian lunch at "Piccola Venezia" on Hanover Street.

Boston may be known for its beans but believe me, it proved to be one of the top cities in the country for delicious foods, wonderful shopping, interesting sights and an overall thoroughly enjoyable trip…one of the best yet!